Seborrheic Keratosis

Definition

Seborrheic keratosis is a type of non-cancerous growth on the top layer of skin. These growths may look like warts.

Seborrheic keratoses are not contagious, do not spread, or do not turn into cancerous tumors. In most cases, treatment is not required.

Causes

The direct cause of seborrheic keratosis is unknown, but it may be linked to genetics.

Risk Factors

Seborrheic keratosis is more common in people aged 40 years and older and in those with a family history.

Symptoms

Seborrheic keratosis are thick growths that may:

Look yellow, tan, brown, white, or black

Be waxy or look like warts

Be round, flat, or oval in shape

Be itchy when irritated by clothing or jewelry

Appear anywhere on the skin

Some people have one lesion, but it is more common to have many.

It may be hard to detect the difference between seborrheic keratosis and melanoma, a potentially fatal skin cancer. It is important to see your doctor anytime new or changing skin lesions are noticed.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor can usually make a diagnosis upon examination of the skin growth. You may need further testing, such as a skin biopsy, to rule out other skin conditions.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Seborrheic keratoses do not pose a threat to your health. The best course of action may be to leave them alone. If they itch or become irritated, or if you feel they affect your appearance, they can be removed.

Treatment options include:

Medications

If you have irritated seborrheic keratoses, your doctor may recommend topical corticosteroids.

Surgery

In some cases, you and your doctor may decide to remove the seborrheic keratoses. Surgical options include:

Freezing the growth, which falls off a few days later

Removal with a razor or scalpel

Laser surgery to burn the growth off

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent seborrheic keratosis.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.